Mae Ella Antoine was born on August 27, 1936, in Rayne, Louisiana, to the late Wilson and Daisy Marks. On December 15, 2025, she peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home. Mae Ella was one of nine children. She was preceded in death by her husband Ernest Antoine, her parents, her sisters; Helen Horne, Masey Marks, and Theresa Marks, her brothers; Wilson “Graveyard” Marks Jr., Milton Marks, and Mitch Marks, and her children, Gary Antoine and Ernestine Antoine.
Mae Ella was known for sharing the story of her journey to California. She received her
education in the Catholic School System in Rayne, Louisiana, and married her beloved husband, Ernest Antoine, at the age of 14. At 29, she courageously moved to California with her first child, Terry Antoine, determined to build a better life. Through faith, perseverance, and hard work, she purchased her home on Shorewood Drive, where she reunited her family and raised all seven of her children with love and devotion.
Mae Ella often spoke of God’s guidance in her life. After praying for work in a Catholic hospital, she was introduced to Mercy Hospital, where she was hired and faithfully served as an Environmental Services Technician for more than 25 years.
She consistently credited God for sustaining her and emphasized the importance of prayer and gratitude.
Family was Mae Ella’s pride and joy. Her strength, wisdom, and faith shaped five generations. As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, she offered gentle guidance, laughter, and unconditional love. She was also a devoted sister, cherishing lifelong bonds of loyalty and compassion.
In her final days, Mae Ella found joy caring for her great-grandchildren, Andre and Navayah, who brought light to her heart.
Mae Ella Antoine will be remembered for her strength, grace, and giving spirit. Her legacy of love, service, and faith will continue through the many lives she touched.
She is survived by her children; Terry Antoine, Barbara Fife, Charlotte Black, Paulette Antoine, and Natalie Antoine, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, her brother Gabriel Marks, her sister Vida (Benjamin) Burns, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Mae Ella Antoine was deeply loved and will be forever remembered.
